Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has officially announced his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia.
Manchester United duo Casemiro and Matheus Cunha headlined the 23-man list, rewarded for their pivotal roles in the closing months of last season.
Even in the absence of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, Ancelotti has surprisingly left out Antony.
The Selecao will first host Chile at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro on 4th September before travelling to El Alto to face Bolivia on 9th September.
Brazil are currently placed third in CONMEBOL qualifying, level with Ecuador and just behind leaders Argentina.
Casemiro has recently enjoyed a resurgence at United, especially as the Red Devils progressed to the UEFA Europa League final.
While many tipped him for a lucrative Saudi switch this summer, the veteran midfielder now looks set to remain a key figure at Old Trafford.
With the 2026 World Cup inching closer, Casemiro knows that staying at United gives him the strongest shot at cementing his place in Ancelotti’s plans.
This latest call-up should put to bed any lingering speculation about a move to the Middle East.
Cunha helped Wolverhampton Wanderers maintain their Premier League status and completed his dream switch to United this summer.
He has been in good form in pre-season and looked United’s brightest attacking outlet in their two games.
Antony rediscovered his lost touch during his loan spell at Real Betis, bagging 14 goal contributions in 26 games.
Ancelotti believes that any player selected for Brazil must be a regular at club level.
Antony has his heart set on a return to Betis but the La Liga side are yet to reach an agreement with United.
The 25-year-old winger must secure a move away from Old Trafford if he hopes to revive his international career.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com